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Superintendent's Newsletter

Superintendent's Newsletter

Harlandale Legacy,

Can you believe we’ve already reached the end of the first six weeks for the 2024-2025 school year? It’s incredible how quickly time passes when our students, staff and community are working hard to keep our Harlandale Legacy strong!

National Recognition Programs Awarded by College Board

I’d like to start this week’s newsletter by celebrating 38 students from Harlandale High School, McCollum High School and STEM Early College High School, who have been honored through the College Board National Recognition Programs. These students have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, and this prestigious recognition will open doors for them as they prepare for college and scholarships. For the first time, the academic honors recognized first-generation students, in addition to rural and small town, Black, Indigenous and Hispanic/or Latino students. We are incredibly proud of our students and their commitment to academic excellence.

Texas Education Agency Recognition

I’d also like to highlight five exceptional educators from across our District who were selected to serve on Texas Education Agency (TEA) committees for the development of state assessments. These teachers contributed their expertise to ensure the quality of STAAR and TELPAS exams for students across Texas. Their participation in the item review process is a testament to their dedication to education and the impact they have not only on our district, but on students statewide. Join me in congratulating Sarah Ledwig, Celeste Orta, Hilda Rodriguez, Stephanie T. Lynum and Ayesa Hinojosa Perez for this honor, and for their commitment to improving educational standards for all.

United Way Campaign

We have officially kicked off this year’s United Way Campaign! Last year, we raised $50,761. Your donations helped support important programs that are making a difference in the lives of so many of our students, families and community members. This year, our goal is to increase that total by 2 percent. With a district as giving as ours, I'm confident that we will reach our district goal and help families in need. I am proud to be a part of this caring and supportive community. Your generosity is making a difference in the lives of so many.

Neighbors Together

We’re excited to announce this year’s Neighbors Together event to celebrate our incredible Harlandale ISD Police Department. We host our Neighbors Together event each year to strengthen the bond between our community and the Harlandale ISD Police Department. Join us on Tuesday, October 1 at Harlandale Memorial Stadium from 5:00–7:00 PM for student performances, free food, helpful resources and so much more!

National Hispanic Heritage Month

During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we strive to recognize the achievements and contributions of Hispanic American trailblazers who have inspired others to keep rising. Here at Harlandale ISD, we honor the rich Hispanic heritage that shapes the vibrant spirit of San Antonio’s South Side. We’d love to hear your stories and see how you’re celebrating this month. Be sure to tag us on social media and use the hashtag #SoydeHarlandale from now until Oct. 15 so we can continue to share our pride for this great community.

Wrapping Up

On behalf of the Harlandale School Board, let’s carry our momentum forward into the second six weeks. We’re all united by the same mission: to provide our students with the best possible education. Let’s celebrate our achievements and continue working together to uphold the Harlandale Legacy.

Sincerely,

Gerardo Soto

Harlandale ISD Superintendent of Schools

Superintendent's Newsletter
www.harlandale.net